Microsoft’s ambitions to launch a mobile Xbox store have hit a significant roadblock, with the tech giant pointing the finger directly at Apple’s App Store policies. In a legal filing supporting Epic Games in its ongoing battle against Apple, Microsoft revealed that Apple’s restrictive rules have effectively stalled the rollout of its mobile gaming marketplace.

The Delayed Mobile Gaming Vision

Microsoft initially announced plans for an Xbox-branded mobile store in 2023, targeting a July 2024 launch as part of a broader strategy to expand its gaming footprint into the mobile sector. This initiative gained momentum following Microsoft’s acquisition of mobile gaming entities such as Candy Crush, positioning the company to become a formidable player in the mobile gaming market.

However, according to details uncovered by The Verge, Microsoft has filed a court brief claiming that Apple’s policies have prevented it from offering users proper access to its planned mobile store. The filing supports Epic Games’ position in its years-long legal dispute with Apple over Fortnite and in-app purchase commissions.

“Apple has stymied its ability to launch a store without paying significant fees for transactions,” Microsoft stated in its filing, as reported by PureXbox.

Apple’s Compliance Issues

The core of Microsoft’s complaint centers on Apple’s alleged refusal to fully comply with previous court rulings. Even after a district court ruled in favor of Epic Games, Microsoft claims that Apple continued to impose restrictions that blocked it from fully implementing its store concept.

According to Moneycontrol, Microsoft specifically states that its Xbox-branded mobile store “has been on hold thanks to Apple’s refusal to fully comply with a ruling that was supposed to” allow such competition. The key sticking point appears to be alternative payment options – Microsoft claims Apple’s policies prevented it from giving users access to payment methods outside Apple’s ecosystem, making the store economically unviable.

A Broader Industry Battle

Microsoft’s support for Epic Games signals a growing coalition of major tech companies challenging Apple’s control over its mobile ecosystem. The Epic-Apple legal dispute has continued for years, primarily focused on Fortnite’s removal from the App Store and the commissions Apple charges for in-app purchases.

In a related development reported by 9to5Mac, Microsoft’s filing comes at a critical juncture in the ongoing legal proceedings. Epic has recently noted that Fortnite remains blocked worldwide on Apple devices, despite various court rulings intended to foster more competition.

Implications for the Gaming Industry

The delay of Microsoft’s Xbox mobile store represents more than just a setback for one company – it highlights the continuing challenges in creating truly competitive marketplaces in the mobile gaming ecosystem. Following its acquisition of major mobile gaming properties, Microsoft positioned itself to create a cross-platform gaming experience that would bridge console, PC, and mobile environments.

This development also raises questions about the effectiveness of legal remedies in the tech industry. Despite years of litigation and various court rulings intended to create more open digital marketplaces, implementation appears to remain problematic, with platform holders like Apple maintaining significant control through policy details and implementation specifics.

As this legal battle continues, the future of mobile gaming marketplaces – and who controls access to them – remains uncertain. For consumers and developers alike, the outcome could significantly impact how games are distributed and monetized in the mobile space for years to come.